Artificial Intelligence in National Security: Strategic Priorities of Türkiye and the UAE

Although there is widespread convergence about the importance of artificial intelligence (AI), there is less clarity regarding which aspects of the technology states prioritize. Using Türkiye and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as case studies, we argue that states seek to reap both long-term and short-term benefits from AI. In the long term, they consider keeping pace with AI advancements essential for maintaining their countries’ economic and strategic competitiveness. At the same time, even before AI reaches its full potential, it already delivers significant strategic advantages, ranging from improvements in training and logistics to advancements in autonomous systems and cybersecurity. Given limited resources, states prioritize investing in the proven capabilities of AI that address their existing strategic needs. By allocating resources to cultivating a skilled AI workforce and advancing research and development efforts, both Türkiye and the UAE demonstrate a commitment to the ‘long game.’ In terms of short-term priorities, Türkiye has applied AI to enhance its counter-terrorism efforts, while the UAE has leveraged AI to mitigate its manpower constraints.